Artist's stoneware and sculptures to be shown at Avenue 9 Gallery

Chico >> Large-scale thrown and carved stoneware vessels and sculptures created by Delbert Rupp will be on showcased in "Delbert Rupp Enigmas" at Avenue 9 Gallery, 180 E. Ninth Ave.

The show is April 25 through May 31 with an artist's reception 5-8 p.m. Friday at the gallery.

In the 1980s, Rupp discovered his love for the ceramic medium and his aptitude for wheel throwing.

He first honed his skills through working for a production pottery studio, but soon felt a need to explore his own visions.

"I developed a method of throwing then manipulating the pieces into organic forms," Rupp said. "I wanted to make larger, more meaningful and unique pieces rather than repeat the same functional form over and over."

While working with clay, Rupp said it is like the clay wants to dance while intertwining in his fingers.

Once the desired shape is formed, his hands guide the slippery material into twisting, rhythmic configurations that view differently from varied angles.

"I like the challenge of making something out of nothing," he said.

As he works he's fascinated by "what the clay tells me it wants to do. I like that I can have a vision without totally being in control — the clay sometimes wants to do its own thing. It's a partnership."

Amongst the sea of ceramic pieces, a Rubenesque nude painting by Rupp will also be in the show.